Press Release
For Immediate Release - January 22, 2008

Contact: Rob Ennamorato - Communications Specialist - (410) 737-2615 rennamorato@bism.org

U.S. Congressman Wayne T. Gilchrest (R-MD) to receive Centennial Award from Blind Industries and Services of MD

BISM, January 24 10-11 am

Salisbury, MD - Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) will honor United States Congressman Wayne T. Gilchrest with our inaugural Centennial Award on Thursday, January 24, 2008 from 10-11 am.

The ceremony for Rep. Gilchrest will take place at the BISM facility on 2240 Northwood Drive in Salisbury. BISM President Frederick J. Puente will present the Centennial Award to Rep. Gilchrest and provide him with a personal tour of our Salisbury operations.

The award presentation kicks off year-long festivities to celebrate BISM's 100th Anniversary, and future Centennial Awards will be presented to Maryland elected officials, dignitaries, and other citizens who have supported our organization throughout the years.

Rep. Gilchrest has been a member of the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991 and has been re-elected eight times. Rep. Gilchrest represents Maryland's 1st District, which covers the entire Eastern Shore along with parts of Baltimore, Cecil, Anne Arundel and Harford Counties. Rep. Gilchrest has been a longtime supporter of Blind Industries and Services of Maryland and the significant services our unique organization offers.

Since its establishment by the Maryland General Assembly in 1908, BISM has provided training and employment opportunities for blind people of Maryland. BISM employs over 400 Associates, the majority of whom are blind, and manufactures more than 150 products at facilities located in Salisbury, Baltimore and Cumberland. Our innovative training division offers programs that teach real-world skills and builds self-confidence for blind and visually impaired people.

The award ceremony for Rep. Gilchrest is a great opportunity for media outlets to learn more about BISM while providing coverage of Maryland's competitive 1st District House Republican Primary. Please contact Rob Ennamorato at 410-737-2615 for more information.